The Russians had traversed the narrow passage; they were in the second chamber. I looked back and saw their torches, some turning to the right, but the majority, unfortunately, keeping straight on our track.
They were creeping nearer and nearer, while Mecsey was slackening his pace.
The long ride and the absence of sleep had told upon him; he was tired; he could not keep on; surely he was stopping--had stopped. I sprang forward to catch him in case he fell, and my heart almost ceased beating.
The river had taken a sudden dip downwards and disappeared. The chamber had come to an end; we were caught.
"We can kill three or four," said Mecsey quietly.
At sight of us standing there the Russians set up a yell of triumph, waving their torches wildly; but we were not in their hands as yet.
"Mecsey," I said, "do you hear me?"
"Yes, captain."
"We've come to the end of our tether, and you must give yourself up. That's not advice, but an order from your officer. The Russians will treat you kindly; and when you are set free, carry news of me to the general and to Colonel Rakoczy."
"Where are you going, captain?"